Vaginal infection

What is a vaginal infection?

A distinction is made between vaginal infections caused by either bacteria or fungi (candida). For STDs, see 'sexually transmitted diseases'.
Bacteria and fungi live in the vagina. There is a natural balance between the different types of bacteria and fungi that can sometimes be disturbed. Certain types of bacteria can start to dominate. This is known as 'bacterial vaginosis'. In other words, there is no infection but an increase in a bacterial species normally found in the vagina. When fungi start to dominate, there will be a fungal infection known as candidiasis.
 

What are the complaints associated with vaginal infection?

A bacterial vaginal infection (vaginosis) can cause an abundant discharge that smells unpleasant.

Candidiasis causes itching and a white, sometimes somewhat crumbly, non-odorous vaginal discharge. The mucosa of the vagina may be red, swollen and painful. Urination or sexual intercourse may therefore be painful or cause a burning sensation.
 

How common are vaginal infections in the general population?

Vaginal discharge is a common problem: the annual incidence rate in general practice is 1.5% for all women. The rate is 3.5% for women aged 19-24 and 3.0% for women aged 25-44. The majority of cases are attributable to candidiasis followed by a bacterial infection. ⁴¹⁹
 

How common are vaginal infections in people with intellectual disabilities?

It is not known how prevalent vaginal infections are in people with intellectual disabilities.

It seems reasonable to assume they will be as prevalent as in the general population, or more so, among women with intellectual disabilities due to limited hygiene and/or the use of medication (antibiotics or corticosteroids).
3% to 3.5% General population Not known for people with intellectual disabilities